Welcome to Casnigo, a charming village perched on a sunny plateau in the central Seriana Valley at an altitude of 514 meters above sea level. The landscape, shaped by the Serio River and the Romna Stream, offers sweeping views stretching from the foothills of the Alps down to the Po Valley.
The Seriana Valley is famous for its extraordinary natural beauty. It features a wide range of landscapes, from majestic mountains to gentle hills, all crisscrossed by rivers and streams that have sculpted the land over the centuries. Its rich flora and fauna make this valley a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Casnigo’s history stretches back to ancient times. During the Celtic era, it served as a military and religious outpost of the legendary city of Parra, the capital of the Gauls. It retained strategic importance under Roman rule, overseeing routes to the upper valley and nearby mining areas. In the Middle Ages, Casnigo continued to play a vital role, as numerous historical records confirm. In 1233, the town gained independence from the local feudal lords, marking the birth of the municipality. In the 14th century, it sided with the Ghibelline faction and was sacked in 1380 by rival Guelf forces. With the arrival of Venetian rule in 1428, the Gandino Valley — of which Casnigo is part — was granted full autonomy, maintaining privileges and exemptions. This led to nearly four centuries of federation among the surrounding towns.
In recent years, the local economy has combined high-quality agriculture with small-scale industry and crafts, mainly in the textile and mechanical sectors. Casnigo is particularly known for its Garibalda bread, made from four types of flour — a modern local product rooted in the culinary traditions of the area.
Unique folkloric traditions enrich the town's cultural life. On January 5th, the eve of Epiphany, a spectacular procession of the Three Wise Men descends by torchlight from the Sanctuary of the Holy Trinity to the village. Costumed participants and baghetèr accompany them, the players of the baghèt — the traditional Bergamasque bagpipe, for which Casnigo is considered the heartland.
The Sunday closest to January 20th celebrates Saint Sebastian, the civic patron of Casnigo, while the Saturday nearest to June 24th honors the town’s religious patron, Saint John the Baptist. During the Feast of the Holy Trinity, visitors can taste a traditional local treat known as “Milk and Cake,” a humble yet beloved dessert served with cold milk on the grassy fields near the sanctuary.
These celebrations cultivate a profound sense of community and provide visitors with an authentic experience of local traditions.
Casnigo welcomes you with the warmth of its heritage, the beauty of its landscapes, and the richness of its history. Whether you’re passionate about culture, nature, or traditional food, this village promises an unforgettable experience.
Borgo Racconta is a registered trademark of
BweB – PiccolaGrandeItalia.TV